Austrian Wartime Military Medal of Merit. World War I. In original case.

Wonderful Austrian Miltary Merit Award for Wartime Achivement, dating from the 1st World War. It is an Austrian medal made of xxx which comes in its original case. This award, commonly known as signum laudis, was introduced by Emperor Franz Joseph on the 12th of March 1890, as a sign recognition for outstanding achievements in war. There was also a similar medal which was awarded for excellent service in peace. It was awarded for commissioned officers. This particular medal bears the ribbon of the Bravery Medal (a moiré white and red ribbon, 3.75 cm wide), which means that it was awarded during the 1st World War. Franz Joseph I of Austria was the emperor who introduced this medal in the end of the 19th century. He reigned over the Austro-Hungarian Empire till his death in 1916, and his figure was popularized by the movies about his wifes life, empress Sissi (Elizabeth of Austria). The obverse bears the picture of the emperor facing right, circumscribed FRANC IOS. I. D. G. IMP. AUSTR REX BOH. ETC. AC AP REX HUNG. (Franz Joseph I, Emperor of Austria, King of Bohemia etc. Apostolic King of Hungary). Over the medal we can see the imperial crown that testifies for the governments rank. It we turn the award, we can see that the reverse bears the motto Signum Laudis (sign of praise in Latin) within a laurel wreath. This is why this award is also known as signum Laudis. The piece is in very good condition and comes into its original case. The outside of the case is covered in black leather while the inside is covered in white satin linen. This medal is a very ancient and historical piece, which will stand out in a showcase designed to exhibit a great collection of awards and military antiques. Measurements: 30 mm width (diámetro) x 47 mm alto (medalla + corona).